A Taste of Nicoya

The sun was just beginning to dip below the horizon as my partner and I strolled through the vibrant streets of Nicoya, the salty breeze from the nearby ocean playing with our hair. We had spent the day riding the waves, the ocean our playground, and now it was time to indulge in another kind of adventure. We had heard whispers of a cooking class that promised to unlock the secrets of Latin American cuisine, and our curiosity was piqued.

As we arrived at the cozy kitchen where the class was held, we were greeted by Jorge, our chef and guide for the evening. His warm smile and easygoing nature immediately put us at ease. Jorge, a Tico born in Samara, had been cooking since he was a child, and his passion for the culinary arts was infectious. He invited us to customize our menu, and we eagerly chose ceviche, patacones, and a ginger-infused juice. The thought of learning to make ceviche, a dish I had savored countless times along the coast, was thrilling.

Cooking with Jorge

Jorge’s kitchen was a haven of aromas and colors, with fresh ingredients laid out like a painter’s palette. As we donned our aprons, Jorge began to share stories of his childhood, learning to cook rice and balance spices under his mother’s watchful eye. His tales were as rich and flavorful as the dishes we were about to create.

We started with the ceviche, a dish that requires precision and a delicate touch. Jorge guided us through the process, teaching us how to select the freshest fish and balance the citrus and spices to perfection. As we chopped and mixed, the kitchen filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. Jorge’s enthusiasm was contagious, and his love for cooking was evident in every step.

Next, we moved on to the patacones, crispy plantain slices that are a staple in Costa Rican cuisine. Jorge showed us how to fry them to golden perfection, and we couldn’t resist sneaking a taste as they sizzled in the pan. The ginger-infused juice was the final touch, a refreshing blend that complemented our meal beautifully.

A Feast to Remember

As we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, the sun had set, and the stars were beginning to twinkle in the night sky. The ceviche was a revelation, the best I had ever tasted, with flavors that danced on the palate. The patacones were crispy and satisfying, and the ginger juice was a refreshing surprise.

Jorge joined us at the table, and we shared stories of our travels and adventures, the conversation flowing as easily as the waves we had surfed earlier in the day. It was more than just a cooking class; it was an experience that brought people together, a celebration of culture and community.

As we left, our hearts and bellies full, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to connect with the local culture in such a meaningful way. The cooking class was a reminder that food is not just sustenance; it’s a way to share stories, create memories, and build connections. If you find yourself in Nicoya, I highly recommend joining Jorge’s class for an unforgettable culinary adventure.